Networking
Top Stories
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Tip
25 Aug 2026
Why agentic AI needs network APIs to succeed
APIs are a foundational component for agentic AI to work properly across enterprise networks. Learn why autonomous agents depend on network APIs to monitor and manage systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Aug 2026
How AI workloads affect enterprise network design
Distributed AI workloads reshape the architectures and strategies that enterprises traditionally relied on to plan network work capacity, manage congestion and support east-west traffic. Continue Reading
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News
08 Oct 2025
Cisco Silicon One touts efficiency breakthrough with AI chip
Cisco claims its Silicon One P200 chip can replace larger, more power-hungry data center interconnects, as AI development pushes the limits of power grids. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Oct 2025
5G in healthcare: 9 benefits and use cases
5G cellular's low latency and broad scalability have huge implications for healthcare, from real-time patient monitoring, to remote diagnosis and surgery, to fast medical imaging. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2025
Navigate networking with cable management software
Cable management software has become an essential tool for managers keeping track of thousands of network components. Before you buy, make sure you know what you're getting. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Oct 2025
How to build a virtual network lab in the AI era
Network teams use virtual labs to test new network configurations and technologies. As AI integrates into networks, virtual labs must upgrade to handle their massive workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Sep 2025
Agentic AI ushers in a new era of network management
Agentic AI will redefine network management. But IT execs have to understand the technology's benefits -- and its drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Sep 2025
What is a wireless sensor network (WSN)?
A wireless sensor network (WSN) is a distributed network of spatially distributed sensors that communicate wirelessly to collect, monitor, and transmit environmental or physical condition data to a central system or cloud platform for analysis. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Sep 2025
What are global area networks (GANs)?
A global area network (GAN) is a type of network that connects devices and users on a global scale. Continue Reading
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Quiz
24 Sep 2025
Study for the CompTIA Network+ exam with this practice quiz
This practice quiz for the CompTIA Network+ N10-009 exam covers key networking concepts, operations, security and troubleshooting with 20 sample questions and answers. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
22 Sep 2025
How to build a network-aware CI/CD pipeline with GitLab and Ansible
Automation is becoming a common process for organizations to include in their networks. No matter what type of automation a network uses, their CI/CD pipeline should be network-aware. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Sep 2025
What is network mapping?
Network mapping is systematically discovering, documenting and visually illustrating all devices linked to a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Sep 2025
What is artificial intelligence-radio access network (AI-RAN)?
An artificial intelligence-radio access network (AI-RAN) is an evolving technology that integrates AI into the conventional radio access networks (RANs) used to operate mobile networks and support network devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Sep 2025
Network scalability issues and 4 approaches to fix them
Network scalability challenges stem from architectural constraints and resource limitations. Improve scalability with approaches such as WAN optimization and latency reduction. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Sep 2025
What is 5G-Advanced (5GA or 5.5G)?
5G-Advanced -- dubbed 5GA or 5.5G -- represents the latest iteration of 5G technology. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Sep 2025
A configuration guide to Network Time Protocol
This guide explains NTP configuration across Linux, macOS and Windows systems. It covers architecture, troubleshooting and best practices for reliable network time synchronization. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2025
What is a municipal wireless network (MWN)?
A municipal wireless network (MWN) is a town or city-wide implementation of a wireless network funded or supported by local government bodies. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2025
What is 5G infrastructure?
5G infrastructure is the combination of hardware and software elements used to construct the fifth generation (5G) of the broadband cellular communication network. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Sep 2025
Ansible vs. Terraform vs. Vagrant: What's the difference?
Ansible sets up networks agentlessly, Terraform manages cloud infrastructure and Vagrant creates consistent development environments. Each serves distinct network automation needs. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Sep 2025
What is the application layer?
The application layer is at Layer 7, the top of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model. It ensures that an application can communicate with other applications on different computer systems and networks. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Sep 2025
What are the 6 components of structured cabling?
The six components of structured cabling are Entrance Facilities, Equipment Room, Backbone Cabling, Telecommunications Room, Horizontal Cabling and Work Area. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Sep 2025
What is a self-organizing network (SON) and do you need one?
A self-organizing network (SON) is an intelligent infrastructure designed to simplify and accelerate the planning, configuration, management, optimization and healing of mobile radio access networks (RANs). Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Sep 2025
11 common wireless security risks you don't have to take
Wi-Fi is a boon to productivity, but it can also create serious security issues. Learn how any company can uncover and fortify their wireless security setup. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Sep 2025
What is an enterprise private network (EPN)?
An enterprise private network (EPN) is a type of private network used by an organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Sep 2025
A network cable management guide
When organizing cable clutter, network engineers should follow best practices, such as labeling, using cable ties and maintaining proper documentation, while avoiding trip hazards. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Sep 2025
What is telecommunications (telecom)?
Telecommunications, also known as telecom, is the exchange of information over significant distances by electronic means and refers to all types of voice, data and video transmission. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Aug 2025
What is network security? Definition and best practices
Network security encompasses all the steps taken to protect the integrity of a computer network and the data within it. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Aug 2025
What are predictive networks and how do they work?
Predictive networks are intelligent IT network systems that use artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and real-time analytics to anticipate and proactively address network issues before they occur. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Aug 2025
The differences between cloud, fog and edge computing
Cloud, edge and fog computing all support modern applications. Cloud computing offers centralized resources, edge enables real-time processing and fog connects them hierarchically. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2025
End-to-end network observability for AI workloads
AI-driven technologies require new practices after they're integrated into networks. For AI to run properly, networks must have full network observability. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2025
What is fault management?
Fault management is the component of network management that detects, isolates and fixes problems. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Aug 2025
What is Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE)?
Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) is a network protocol that facilitates communication between network endpoints. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Aug 2025
What is geo-blocking?
Geo-blocking is blocking online content based on its location. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Aug 2025
What is Synchronous Optical Network (SONET)?
Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) is a North American standardized digital communication protocol for synchronous data transmission over optical fibers. Continue Reading
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News
13 Aug 2025
Cisco data center SVP on AI, cloud evolution and competition
The company's data center and internet infrastructure leader said Cisco's strategy aims to match explosive artificial intelligence innovation. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Aug 2025
How to begin Wi-Fi 7 deployment
As Wi-Fi lifecycles move faster than ever, enterprises must consider when to deploy a new Wi-Fi standard. This article offers guidance on when to deploy Wi-Fi 7 in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
05 Aug 2025
Broadcom's Jericho4 boosts data center AI networking
The company's latest networking chip promises better bandwidth, security and connectivity throughout and between data centers. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
05 Aug 2025
How Ansible's Python framework enables network automation
Ansible's use of Python scripts creates a powerful network automation tool. This guide shows how to automate router tasks with Ansible in a GNS3 lab, such as VLAN setup and backup. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2025
What is fiber to the home (FTTH)?
Fiber to the home (FTTH) is the installation and use of optical fiber from a central point to individual buildings to provide high-speed internet access. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Aug 2025
How to develop a network budget
A network budget is an important part of IT financial planning. Organizations can follow one of several different approaches to create a network budget based on business goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2025
What is an SDN controller (software-defined networking controller)?
A software-defined networking controller is an application in SDN architecture that manages Flow control for improved network management and application performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2025
What is a network service provider (NSP)?
A network service provider (NSP), also known as a backbone provider, is a company that owns, operates and sells access to internet backbone infrastructure and services. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2025
What is nslookup?
Nslookup is the name of a program that lets users enter a hostname and find out the corresponding Internet Protocol address or Domain Name System record. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2025
What is HAProxy?
HAProxy is a high-performance, open source load balancer and reverse proxy for TCP and HTTP applications. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jul 2025
DOJ firings spark fresh HPE-Juniper deal scrutiny
Reported involvement from intelligence agencies, lobbyists may have helped push the merger through before a planned antitrust trial, causing infighting at the Justice Department. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jul 2025
What is an unshielded twisted pair (UTP)?
Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) is a ubiquitous type of copper cabling used in networking technologies, such as telephone wiring and local area networks (LANs). Continue Reading
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News
28 Jul 2025
Intel to spin off networking business in cost-cutting gambit
In a familiar move, the semiconductor giant's Network and Edge unit will operate independently with Intel's backing. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jul 2025
What is a content delivery network?
A content delivery network (CDN), also called a content distribution network, is a group of geographically distributed and interconnected servers. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jul 2025
What is ONOS (Open Network Operating System)?
ONOS (Open Network Operating System) is an OS designed to help network service providers build carrier-grade software-defined networks architected for high scalability, availability and performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jul 2025
What is voice over LTE (VoLTE)?
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a digital packet technology that uses 4G Long-Term Evolution networks to route voice traffic and transmit data. Continue Reading
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Video
24 Jul 2025
An explanation of telecommunications
Telecommunications is the electronic exchange of information across distances -- encompassing voice, data and video transmission -- to form global communication networks. Continue Reading
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Video
21 Jul 2025
An explanation of mesh Wi-Fi
Mesh Wi-Fi networks connect multiple nodes to transmit data without a central router, offering broader coverage and self-healing capabilities, despite higher costs. Continue Reading
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Video
18 Jul 2025
An explanation of local area networks
Local area networks are interconnected systems that share resources within a limited geographic area. They can be wired, wireless or virtual, depending on workplace needs. Continue Reading
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Video
18 Jul 2025
A brief explanation of latency
Latency measures data transmission delays between points. Causes include physical distance and hardware issues, while solutions might involve hardware upgrades or edge computing. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Jul 2025
Why does DHCP use ports 67 and 68?
DHCP servers use port 67/udp to receive requests and send responses, while DHCP clients use port 68/udp to broadcast discovery messages and receive configuration data. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jul 2025
How platform-based networking enables network management
Platform-based networking tweaks the platformization model to become a comprehensive tool set for network administrators. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2025
What is network bandwidth and how is it measured?
Network bandwidth is a measurement indicating the maximum capacity of a wired or wireless communications link to transmit data over a network connection in a given time. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2025
What is telematics?
Telematics is a term that combines the words 'telecommunications' and 'informatics' to describe the use of communications and IT to transmit, store and receive information from devices to remote objects over a network. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Jul 2025
An introduction to satellite network architecture
Satellite network architecture consists of three segments: space, ground and control. Satellite networks enhance networking beyond terrestrial network capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jul 2025
What is multi-user MIMO?
Multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) is a wireless communication technology that uses multiple antennas to improve communication by creating multiple connections to the same device simultaneously. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2025
Network pros need Ansible network automation skills
Network administrators must develop Ansible skills to learn how to automate and manage system resources across an infrastructure, simplifying network configuration management. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jul 2025
What is a campus network?
A campus network, also known as a 'campus area network,' is a proprietary local area network (LAN) or set of interconnected LANs in a small geographic area. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jul 2025
What is the presentation layer?
The presentation layer resides at Layer 6 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) communications model and ensures all communications that pass through it are in the appropriate form for the recipient application. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Jul 2025
A look at HPE's strategy with Juniper, networking for AI
HPE's recent networking advancements and the completion of its Juniper Networks acquisition aim to reshape networking strategies for AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2025
What is the domain name system (DNS)?
The domain name system (DNS) is a naming database in which internet domain names are located and translated into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2025
What is an SD-branch?
An SD-branch is a single, automated, centrally managed, software-centric platform that replaces or supplements an existing branch network architecture. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2025
What is attenuation?
Attenuation is a general term referring to when any type of signal -- digital or analog -- reduces in strength. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Jul 2025
What is a coaxial cable?
A coaxial cable -- or coax cable -- is a type of copper cable specially built with a metal shield and other components engineered to block signal interference. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is a network management system?
A network management system (NMS) is an application or set of applications that enable network engineers to manage a network's independent components inside a larger network management framework and perform several key functions. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is a cloud radio access network (C-RAN)?
A cloud radio access network (C-RAN) is a centralized, cloud computing-based architecture for radio access networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is a point of presence (PoP)?
A point of presence (PoP) is a point or physical location where two or more networks or communication devices build a connection from one place to the rest of the internet. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jul 2025
3 questions with Cisco channel exec Rodney Clark
For this episode of CFTV, we caught up with Cisco channel exec Rodney Clark at Cisco Live. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is ingress filtering?
Ingress filtering is a method used by enterprises and internet service providers to prevent suspicious traffic from entering a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is green networking?
Green networking is the practice of selecting energy-efficient networking technologies and products to minimize resource use whenever possible. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is a host (in computing)?
A host is a computer or other device that communicates with other hosts on a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2025
What is network as a service (NaaS)?
Network as a service (NaaS) is a cloud model for delivering various network services virtually on a subscription basis. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jul 2025
Arista buys VeloCloud from Broadcom
Arista fills a gap in its portfolio with VeloCloud's SD-WAN capabilities. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jul 2025
What is a bogon?
A bogon is an illegitimate Internet Protocol address that falls into a set of IP addresses that haven't been officially assigned to an entity by an internet registration institute, such as the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). Continue Reading
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News
01 Jul 2025
HPE's Mottram touts key Aruba Networking AI advancements
The infrastructure company is injecting AI throughout its business, including its networking arm, which will harness the power of agentic AI. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2025
3 pillars to enhance networks for agentic AI infrastructure
Agentic AI requires better network infrastructure to prevent wasted GPU capacity, built on three principles: simplified operations, scalable devices and a security-infused fabric. Continue Reading
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News
30 Jun 2025
DOJ clears road for HPE's $14B Juniper Networks acquisition
Juniper is now part of HPE. To close the deal, HPE agreed to sell off its Instant On wireless networking business and license source code for Juniper's Mist AIOps software. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2025
The new network security blueprint for AI
At Cisco Live 2025, networking professionals explained that network security needs to drastically change to keep up with AI, including updated ZTNA and firewall practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jun 2025
How to configure multiple DHCP scopes on one Windows server
Deploying one DHCP server per subnet is time-consuming and costly. Configure multiple DHCP scopes on one Windows server to centralize network management and increase efficiency. Continue Reading
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Quiz
24 Jun 2025
Cisco CCNA practice test: Try these 20 exam questions
Use this CCNA practice test as study material to prepare for the Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam. With 20 questions on a range of topics, we're not playing around. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Jun 2025
Cisco Live 2025 set the tone for AI, security in networking
The networking giant's latest products underscore the importance of agentic AI and security within computing infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Jun 2025
The benefits and challenges of AI in network monitoring
Using AI to track network activity streamlines management and predictive maintenance. But questions about data output integrity, security risks and integration complexities remain. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2025
Cybersecurity top of mind in Cisco 360 partner program
Many of the innovations unveiled during Cisco Live will provide new opportunities for Cisco’s security partners, the company said. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2025
AI technologies are only as good as their managers
ESG's Jim Frey joins the podcast to discuss why developing the right tools to provide oversight and coordination across agentic and GenAI technologies will be key to network planning and performance. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2025
Cisco fortifies enterprise networking gear to support AI workloads
The company is aiming to help enterprises bolster security and resilience as they power up compute-intensive AI workloads. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jun 2025
Splunk partner program to integrate with Cisco 360
Splunk's channel leader says partners can expect more opportunity than disruption as they become part of the new Cisco 360 partner program. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
12 Jun 2025
An introduction to network automation with Ansible
Ansible gives administrators additional control over how they configure devices. These tips and tricks help give you a head start in learning what Ansible can do. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco Isovalent Load Balancer takes aim at Broadcom's VMware
The new product promises to simplify disparate network traffic across cloud, hybrid and on-premises workloads. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco rolls out data center solutions to power AI
Cisco targets the AI infrastructure market with new equipment and software, including AI agents that simplify network and security operations. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco CEO stresses security for agentic AI
Cisco launched a new agentic AI platform and a number of security services for enterprise and service providers customers at Cisco Live this week. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2025
Cisco Live offers biggest innovation 'payload' ever
The AI era is more reliant on the network than anything else, said CEO Chuck Robbins at Cisco Live. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco intros latest network, security innovations for AI era
Cisco has unveiled its latest innovations aimed at helping customers navigate through the critical infrastructure needed for agentic AI. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2025
How an edge networking strategy optimizes AI workloads
Edge networking prioritizes managing data at the network edge. This network architecture reduces latency, enhances operational efficiency and enables real-time AI processing. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco unleashes agentic AI, global partnerships for data center
The networking company launched new tools to meet the AI needs of enterprise customers in the data center. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Rodney Clark: Cisco 360 resonating with partners
During Cisco Live, Cisco is emphasizing the importance of partners in its value chain. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2025
Cisco beefs up AI, security in new networking products
The networking giant released a slew of products leveraging the capabilities of last year's Splunk acquisition and touting a focus on AI adoption support. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jun 2025
The demands of AI on network as a service
An expert panel at ONUG's AI Networking Summit Spring 2025 gave insight into the future of AI in networking, particularly in NaaS environments. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Jun 2025
Agentic AI for networking: Catalyst or distraction?
Though many networking platforms claim to be agentic, few truly are. Here's how to determine whether a platform is agentic and what this AI wave means for IT. Continue Reading